DC based singer/songwriter Elle Mitchell has had a love for making music since she was a toddler, and now she’s telling her coming-of-age story through her music. As we listen to Elle dive into the feelings of a passionate, impulsive young heart with her latest single “Prodigal,” let’s also dive into exactly how Elle got to this point as an artist!
IT ALL STARTED WITH A UKULELE
Elle got her hands on her first ukulele when she was only four years old as a gift from Santa. “It was bright pink, which was my favorite color back then,” she notes. “Oddly, as I was growing up, I never really stuck with ukulele in the same way that I gravitated to piano. Even so, I have such an appreciation for ukulele because it really kicked off my music journey.”
Eight years later, Elle started writing her own original songs! Grace Vanderwaal’s audition for America’s Got Talent served as a huge source of inspiration for Elle. She says, “I remember watching that video on a constant loop, because I was so inspired that a girl my age could write lyrics and melodies that resonated with me so deeply.”
THE STORY OF “PRODIGAL”
Elle spills, “‘Prodigal’ really focuses in on the desire for freedom and independence that is such a central part of the coming-of-age experience. The storyline is inspired by two historically-renowned parables: the biblical story of the prodigal son and the ancient greek myth of Icarus and Daedalus. I wanted to play on the idea of rebellious youth that is woven into the fabric of these stories as a way of conveying the importance of family and home.”
GRATITUDE + GOING FORWARD
One of Elle’s favorite things about being an artist is getting to meet and work with other talented humans! “I’m so grateful to all the people on my team for their support and dedication,” she says. “One thing I’ve grown to understand is how iterative and collaborative the creative process is, where everyone’s voice matters.”
Elle’s family has also backed her up since day one, and she’s especially grateful for them being some of her biggest cheerleaders. She says, “They’ve always supported and encouraged me to follow my passion for music, and it’s such an incredible feeling when someone believes in you.”
Going into 2022, Elle plans to write and release even more music! She says, “I want my music to truly reflect the depth of my creativity, so I’m hoping that comes through across my future releases.”
Stay tuned for more! Listen to “Prodigal” below, and say hi to Elle on Instagram @ellemitchellmusic.